Wood Treatments and Timber Protection
Untreated exterior wood deteriorates faster than most people expect. Moisture, weathering, UV exposure, and fungal attack work gradually, and by the time rot or decay is visible the damage is usually well established. The right wood treatment applied at the right time either prevents that process from starting or stops it progressing further.
Wood Preservatives and Stains
Our wood preservatives and stains are formulated to both protect and enhance timber, covering everything from professional-grade oil-based stains that penetrate deeply to deliver a durable satin finish on hardwood and softwood, to aqueous, non-toxic preservative treatments suitable for interior and exterior use.
Products in this range protect new and old timber from wet rot, dry rot, fungal decay, and general deterioration, while restoring or enhancing the natural colour of the wood. Suitable for fencing, decking, sheds, garden furniture, cladding, and other wooden structures exposed to the elements.
The wood preserver is fast drying, non-flammable, and can be applied to wet timbers without loss of performance. It penetrates deeply to give long lasting protection, including on end grain where moisture ingress is typically highest.
Dry and Wet Rot Treatments
For timber already affected by rot, fungal attack, or wood boring insects, our dry and wet rot treatments provides targeted treatments:
-
Woodzone Dual Purpose is a micro-emulsion insecticide and fungicide for timber subject to both insect attack and fungal decay simultaneously.
-
Woodzone Insecticide contains no organic solvents and is specifically formulated for timber affected by wood boring insects including woodworm.
-
Wood Preservative Gel (Eco Bor 20) is a gel-format preservative for deep treatment of affected timber where liquid penetration needs to be controlled.
-
Masonry Biocide (Woodzone) addresses biological growth on masonry adjacent to affected timber.
Dry rot and wet rot left untreated will spread. Treatment needs to address both the visible damage and the conditions that allowed it to develop, typically excess moisture and poor airflow.
Wood Treatment Sprayers
Kingfisher's solvent-resistant wood treatment sprayers are designed for applying our aqueous wood treatment products, compatible with the KF-8 and KF-18 ranges. The 7-litre Constru-Plus is suited to larger areas and small-scale loft treatments. The 1-litre version covers smaller, more targeted applications. Both are lightweight and professional grade.
Getting Wood Treatment Right
Apply wood preservative before problems develop, not after. Treated timber lasts significantly longer than timber treated reactively once decay has started.
End grain absorbs moisture faster than any other surface. Make sure end grain is fully treated on cut or exposed sections of decking, fencing, and cladding.
On timber affected by dry rot or wet rot, identify and resolve the moisture source first. Treating the timber without fixing the underlying damp problem will not provide long lasting protection.
For exterior wood treatments on fences, sheds, and garden furniture, clean the surface of algae, dirt, and loose material before applying any stain or preservative. This ensures even penetration and the desired finish.
Where both insect attack and fungal decay are present, use a dual-purpose treatment rather than applying separate products.
Not Sure Which Product You Need?
Whether you're looking to preserve timber against rot and decay, treat an active woodworm or fungal infestation, or restore the appearance of weathered fencing and decking, the right product depends on the timber's condition and what you're trying to achieve. Our technical team can advise before you order. Contact us if you're unsure whether you need a preservative, a stain, a dual-purpose treatment, or something more targeted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a wood preservative and a wood stain?
A wood preservative is primarily a protective treatment, formulated to prevent or treat fungal decay, wet rot, dry rot, and insect attack. A wood stain combines colour with a degree of protection, enhancing the appearance of timber while providing weather resistance. Some products, like Timberline, do both. The right choice depends on whether the priority is protection, appearance, or both.
Can wood preservative be applied to wet timber?
Kingfisher's wood preserver is specifically formulated to be applied to wet timbers without loss of performance, which makes it practical for exterior use in the UK climate where timber is rarely fully dry.
How do I know if timber has dry rot or wet rot?
Wet rot typically produces soft, darkened timber that feels spongy when pressed. Dry rot produces a more brittle, crumbly texture and can spread further from the moisture source through masonry and other materials. Both require treatment, but dry rot is generally more serious and may need professional assessment if the infestation is extensive.
Can I use wood stain on garden furniture?
Yes. Both K-X10 and Timberline are suitable for garden furniture as well as fencing, decking, and sheds. For furniture that will be handled regularly, K-X10's satin finish is particularly suited given its durability on hardwood and softwood surfaces.
Does exterior wood treatment protect against algae and mould?
Timberline Wood Preserver provides protection against fungal decay and deterioration. For exterior timber with existing algae growth, clean the surface thoroughly before applying any preservative treatment to ensure full penetration and performance. Browse our mould control range for more options.
